Main description:

Published in 1998, this is a fundamental re-assessment of the world-view of the alchemists, natural philosophers and intelligencers of the mid 17th century. Based almost entirely upon the extensive and hitherto little-researched manuscript archive of Samuel Hartlib, it charts and contextualises the personal and intellectual history of Johann Moriaen (c.1592-1668), a Dutch-German alchemist and natural philosopher. Moriaen was closely acquainted with many of the leading thinkers and experimenters of his time, including Rene Descartes, J.A. Comenius, J.R. Glauber and J.S. KA1/4ffler. His detailed reports of relations with these figures and his response to their work provide a uniquely informed insight into the world of alchemy and natural philosophy. This study also illuminates the nature and mechanisms of intellectual and technological exchanges between Germany, The Netherlands and England.

Contents:

Part 1: Johann Moriaen: A Biographical Sketch 1. Servant of the Church 2.Servant of God 3. An Intelligencer's Ethos Part 2: Universal Wisdom 4.Panaceas of the Soul: Comenius and the Dream of Universal Knowledge 5. Curing Creation: Alchemy and Spirituality 6. Universal Medicines: Johann Rudolph Glauber and his Reception in England 7. The Dawn of Wisdom.